Ben Chilwell has outlined his ambition to reach the 2026 World Cup after leaving Chelsea, describing it as the ultimate chance to prove his doubters wrong following his Strasbourg move
Ben Chilwell has set his sights on earning a spot in England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup next summer. The former Chelsea defender hasn’t played for the Three Lions since March 2024, but his bold switch to Strasbourg has breathed fresh life into his career.
Chilwell, who swapped Stamford Bridge for Stade de la Meinau at the eleventh hour of the summer transfer window, has made eight appearances in Ligue 1 this campaign, recording three clean sheets. Playing a crucial part in Liam Rosenior’s setup, he’s helped Strasbourg rise to fifth place in the table.
The former Leicester City defender has embraced the chance to compete at an elite level again, and his displays have caught the eye. In a behind-the-scenes chat, Thomas Tuchel told Chilwell he remains in his thoughts ahead of the World Cup.
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The Englishman played 39 times for the German during his tenure at Chelsea, winning the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. Speaking to BBC Sport, Chilwell said: “We’ve had conversations since he got the job at England [in October 2024].
“I’ll try and word it right – it has been said that it’s not out of the equation,” said the full-back, who’s eager to silence his critics. “What a story it would be if I went to the World Cup, after I was in the bomb squad and everyone had counted me out 12 months prior.
“It would just be the biggest middle finger to so many people, which to me is a motivation. Chelsea were honest with me, and so there’s no resentment, but of course, I’ve got an ego, so it would be a nice feeling to prove some people wrong.”
Chilwell added: “It makes me laugh that people think I’m an old player at 28 – I’m really in my prime. That’s why the World Cup is an ambition… there’s so much to achieve.”
The Englishman left Chelsea to link up with Strasbourg, a club also owned by Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly. Chilwell became the sixth star to move between the two teams since the partnership began – though he insisted the choice to move across the Channel was entirely his own.
“They’ve always rang or messaged,” said Chilwell. “They go to a lot of Strasbourg games, we’re cool, and we’ll give each other a hug. The only thing you can ask for as a footballer is honesty. I’ve never had anything against Enzo Maresca.
“I told everyone how much I respected the fact that he was honest, because at least then I could just go; ‘Alright, cool, I’m not wanted’. Of course, I wasn’t happy with the decision. I didn’t agree with it, but I respected it.”
Roughly a year after the American consortium’s £4.25bn purchase of Chelsea, BlueCo – the parent firm established as the investment vehicle for the buyout – acquired a controlling interest in Strasbourg. They acquired close to complete ownership for €75m (£65m).
BlueCo took over the French team in June 2023, shortly after they had narrowly avoided relegation from the top-flight by a mere five points. These days, Strasbourg are not only competing in the UEFA Conference League but also vying for a spot in the Champions League.
Rosenior, who has been pivotal in the club’s rapid ascent, persuaded Chilwell to come on board. As the sole outfield player over the age of 23, the former Chelsea defender has assumed a leadership role.
“As soon as I went in, they just kept winning, so I couldn’t knock on the manager’s door [to ask why I wasn’t playing],” Chilwell said. “I’ve lost a few cup finals, so at least I got that monkey off my back and was involved with a good group.”
Chilwell is set to face familiar foes on Thursday night when Strasbourg lock horns with Crystal Palace. The defender had a short loan stint at Selhurst Park last season, during which he helped clinch the FA Cup.
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